Is it good to use supplements during gym?

Answer 1

Weight lifting supplements can be broken down into three basic categories: general health supplements, strength/muscle recovery supplements and pre-workout supplements. While you don't need to take weight lifting supplements to see progress, the right ones can definitely help.

Most people, non-lifters and lifters alike should take general health supplements to ensure optimal functioning of normal body processes. Those who are just beginning to lift need not worry about taking anything else (except maybe whey protein) until they have already learned how to make significant progress using a proper routine, correct weight training exercise technique, and most importantly a sound diet plan & sufficient sleep/recovery. Only then, should new lifters experiment with strength/muscle supplements and pre-workout supplements.

Below is a breakdown of the three basic categories of weight lifting supplements:

1. General Health Supplements:

• Fish Oils. Fish oil has a gamut of benefits, from improved skin, nails and hair to better energy to a healthy heart & cardiovascular system. However, those who don't eat a diet with frequent fatty fish intake are most likely failing to get a proper dosage of these omega-3 fatty acids; specifically EPA and DHA.
• Multi-Vitamins. Multi-vitamins are like an "insurance plan" for your diet. They contain the essential vitamins and minerals that your body requires, so that if you don't get enough of these micro-nutrients in from foods in your daily diet. However, it's important not to rely on taking a vitamin in lieu of nutrient-rich foods (i.e. fruits and veggies).
• Vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is increasingly being realized by health authorities as a potential epidemic. This vitamin is essential for everything from bone density to sex drive to protection against Heart disease, stroke and other diseases. It may also have the benefit of enhanced strength performance during intense exercise. It's estimated that you may need upwards of 2000-3000 MCG/day from a supplement if you're not getting a significant amount of sun per day as well as some from your diet.

2. Strength/Muscle Recovery Supplements:

• Creatine Monohydrate. This is the most proven of all strength/performance supplements in existence; it has a ton of research backing it as a supplement that is proven to increase your ATP (i.e. energy); thereby allowing you to become stronger (and by extension, more muscular) by enhancing your performance during short bursts of energy (e.g. weight lifting). For example, if you could normally squat 225x6, creatine supplementation could enable you to squat, say, 225x8-9.
• Whey Protein. Note that whey isn't some magical type of protein. But it is relatively inexpensive and it makes consuming your daily protein requirements (~1g/lb bodyweight per day) a lot more practical. It's most common to take whey protein with carbohydrates after a weight training session in order to stop catabolism (i.e. breakdown of muscle) and to initiate an anabolic response (i.e. muscle building/repairing).
• Carbohydrate Supplements (e.g. Dextrose or Waxymaize). These are typically used for pre or post workout shakes, although you could use carbohydrate-rich food instead. However, I'm a fan of dextrose because it's very cheap and convenient for making a shake. Waxymaize is more expensive, but still a decent powder carbohydrate product.

3. Pre-Workout Supplements:

• Caffeine (caffeine tabs or coffee). Caffeine, in moderate amounts is actually good for you. And of course, everyone knows the enhanced effects it has on the body; and so, taking it pre-workout will give you a more focused and intense workout session. Also, caffeine has been proven to delay muscular fatigue during intense weight training; meaning that you can pump out a couple more reps than you usually could during a set. It also enables you to lose fat more efficiently by increasing fat mobilization and oxidation (burning).
• Beta-Alanine. The performance benefits of this pre-workout supplement ingredient are questionable. However, it does cause a certain physical response/feeling, which may be described as increased energy or the desire to workout. I'd definitely invest in caffeine before buying this supplement ingredient.
• Commercial Pre-Workout Products. Jack3d, Superpump 250, N.O. Xplode, etc. - You can get these if you want to pay extra for what is basically a mix of caffeine, beta-alanine, B-vitamins, some trivial ingredients, and some fancy packaging... In other words, these products certainly do give you energy, but in some peoples' opinions, they are overpriced. Only you [and your wallet] can decide if this is a smart fiscal purchase or not.

Before starting a new dietary/supplementation regiment, it is wise to consult with your physician or medical adviser.

Answer 2

I have been working out for 13 years and have used many pre training supplements. I always wanted to go the extra mile in workouts however, would often crash before the target. Recently, I tried a new launch from Gamma Labs cGamma PTF (Pre Training Formula) and it makes me feel on top of the world. It proved its class on day one. I was scared I would crash However Gamma kept me going. Awesome stuff ! Got it at discount at GNC.

Answer 3

Anything that can help burn fat and keep you hydrated.

Answer 4

No, it is not good (and actually not necessary also) to use supplements during gym.

Answer 5

GNC has a good selection of workout supplements you can take. Some of the leading supplements include protein shakes, protein pills and formulas including Stacker 2.

Answer 6

The best supplements you can take is a high protein shake, mutli vitamin(including Omega 3's), a before and after workout energy drink/snack/shake, as well as Creatine and a thermogenic.